Question about NSAIDS and the staple line?

Does anyone know  if our staple lines are always more vulnerable to ulcers than the rest of the stomach or just during the healing period and what do you know about the use of NSAIDS for  someone with a VSG?  I always thought that they were just as harmful for us, but easier to detect stomach ulcers on us than on RNY patients, but don't mind being corrected!  I have a friend looking into a VSG asking these questions and I wasn't able to answer her, so any help would be appreciated! 

Ok, to answer my own question, I got a reply from my surgeons office (within a few minutes - I was impressed)!  Here goes:

"Sandy, according to Dr. Christou the staple line is at risk only in the first 6 months. After that time the risk of gastric ulcers is the same as before surgery."

I should have asked about NSAIDS  while I was at it.  Any input is still welcome!

My doctor contradicted.

He told me on my last annual that he reversed his opinion on NSAIDS. He used to say it was ok. But he told me that NSAIDS could cause a problem on the staple line and that we should avoid them. He said occasional use is ok but not to make a habit of them.

His concern was if an ulcer developed on the staple line.

Thanks for your reply (and nice to see you)!  I rarely use NSAIDS so I'm not really worried, but curious about the strength of the staple line further out.  Any other thoughts?

Thanks,

Still around just don't post as much as I used to. What Karik said is what I have heard as well. The risk of Ulcers is the same as if you didn't have surgery although an ulcer on the staple line can be problematic.

According to both my surgeon and his MD (who does most of the after care for us farther out) NSAIDs must be used sparingly. According to them scar tissue is far more susceptible to ulceration than the unscarred stomach tissue. Tylenol is their preference, but I am allowed to use an NSAID occasionally, but not with regularity.

I've used them daily for a couple of years now without incident. I hope it continues to be so cause I really need them. 

Laura

i don't know the answer to this though my surgeon has told me its fine to use nsaids for my arthritis hand pain - just take with a bit of food he says.   i use a topical nsaid gel too and i intend to ask my surgeon more about this stuff when we have support group in a week or two. i will try to remember to ask this.  once i asked my surgeon if there was any way i could "wreck" my sleeve and he said no.    diane

Thanks for your replies!